We Talk, Western Michigan University's civil discourse and open inquiry initiative, will host a two‑panel conversation with national and campus experts on the benefits and risks of international education at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, in WMU Student Center ballroom A. International students strengthen STEM fields, fuel the U.S. talent pipeline and enrich research, yet immigration barriers and security concerns create new challenges. We hope you can join us for this timely discussion on balancing openness, innovation, and national security. Learn more: wmich.edu/wetalk/upcoming-events
WMU Today
Posted by Mallory Bourdo for We Talk
Posted by Gary Barton for Information Technology
Western Michigan University will launch the next required information security training campaign with NINJIO on Tuesday, Feb. 17. All faculty and staff will be automatically enrolled.
This training supports the Office of Information Technology’s ongoing efforts to strengthen WMU’s security culture and help protect the university’s digital systems and data.
NINJIO training features short, engaging animated episodes—about four minutes each—that focus on real-world cybersecurity threats and provide practical guidance for staying secure.
What to Expect / Action Required
Watch for your training email from WMU NINJIO <ninjio@wmich.edu>View the assigned episodeComplete the brief quiz at the endThank you to those who shared feedback—…
Posted by Deanne Puca for Marketing and Strategic Communications
Additional spring semester sessions for formal headshots specifically for faculty and staff are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, in Room 3120 in Sangren Hall and on Thursday, April 9, in Room 4550 of Sangren Hall. Photos are taken on a walk-in basis, and no appointments are needed.
Posted by Tonya Dean for Faculty Development
New Faculty Orientation Fall 2026
The Office of Faculty Development announces the Fall 2026 New Faculty Orientation program. All new full-time faculty members and… 2026 New Faculty Orientation
Posted by Tonya Dean for Faculty Development
New Faculty Orientation Fall 2026
The Office of Faculty Development announces the Fall 2026 New Faculty Orientation program. All new full-time faculty members and… New Faculty Orientation Fall 2026
Posted by Gary Barton for Digital Accessibility
Join one of the four ADA Title II Digital Accessibility Readiness Town Hall to learn about new federal digital accessibility requirements taking effect April 24, 2026, how they will impact websites, learning platforms, and digital media, and what WMU is doing to support campus compliance. Attend an in‑person session in the University Computing Center (UCC) Classroom 2034 on Feb. 10, noon–1 p.m., or Feb. 11, 4–5 p.m., or join a virtual Webex session on Feb. 17, 4–5 p.m. or Feb. 18, noon–1 p.m. Registration required.
Learn more and register by visiting the Digital Accessibility website
Posted by Maria Mata for Institutional Equity
Institutional Equity, in partnership with Academic Affairs & Diversity and Inclusion will hold its 7th WMU Professional Development Institute: Building Cultural Communication Competencies from May 5-8. Led by Dr. Mark Orbe, professor of communication and diversity, this 3.5 day offering is designed to: Engage participants to increase awareness of contemporary intergroup relations; Equip participants with the necessary tools for greater engagement; Empower participants to achieve individual professional development goals; and Enhance existing resources in the building capacity across campus. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 27th.
Posted by Carolyn Smith for Student Transitions
The Office of Student Transitions is accepting applications to teach First-Year Experience (FYE) 2100 in fall 2026. FYE 2100 is a two-credit course that supports first-year students in their academic and social transition to WMU through strengths development, campus connections, and goal setting. FYE instructors play a key role in fostering belonging and helping students build a solid foundation for success.
Applicants must hold a master’s degree in a relevant field or a bachelor’s degree with at least two years of relevant professional experience. Part-time instructors are paid $1,332 per credit hour, in accordance with PIO contracts. Applications are due Monday, March 2, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Learn more and apply to teach FYE 2100 in fall 2026.
Posted by Tonya Dean for Teaching and Learning
The Office of Faculty Development invites applications for the 2026 Faculty Advancement Awards (FAA). This award supports faculty professional development through the NCFDD Faculty Success Program (FSP), a nationally recognized, evidence-based virtual boot camp designed to help faculty increase……
Posted by Amie Heasley for University Advancement
Hungry for good food and great company? Open to all faculty and staff, Gold Gathering luncheons are FREE + offer you the chance to network and win gift cards!
REGISTER NOW for Feb. 19 luncheon
Luncheons are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Space is limited, so register early!
Upcoming Gold Gathering Luncheons
February 19, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (Parkview Room)
March 19, College of Health and Human Services (Room 4010)
April 16, TBD
Hosted by University Advancement, Gold Gathering luncheons are generously sponsored by Redman Agency and Blue Ox Credit Union (an Ignite Credit Union…